Raw Fish Rice Bowl (회덮밥): what it is and how to order it in Korea
Hoedeopbap is a rice bowl topped with thin slices of raw fish, usually flounder or tuna, and a mix of fresh vegetables, all tossed in sweet and spicy gochujang sauce. It is a light, colorful meal popular for lunch, especially in coastal towns.
Say it to order
회덮밥 주세요
Hoedeopbap juseyo
Quick facts
How to eat it
Add the gochujang sauce and sesame oil, then mix everything thoroughly with a spoon before eating. Serve yourself a little soup if one comes with the set.
Do
- Use the spoon for rice and the chopsticks for the toppings.
- Mix the bowl well before eating so each bite has sauce and fish.
Don’t
- Don't leave the soup untouched if it is served with the meal.
- Don't add extra gochujang before tasting, since the sauce is already seasoned.
Local tips
- Some places serve it with a raw egg yolk or sesame oil; add them to taste.
- Ask whether the fish is sashimi-grade if you are unsure, and check that it is freshly cut.
Goes with
- Cold barley tea
- Soju
- Pickled radish
- Seaweed soup
- Kimchi
Where to try it in Seoul
Questions
- How do you order Raw Fish Rice Bowl in Korean?
- Say “회덮밥 주세요” (Hoedeopbap juseyo).
- Is Raw Fish Rice Bowl spicy?
- Yes — about 2 out of 5 on the spice scale.
- How much does Raw Fish Rice Bowl cost in Korea?
- Usually ₩10,000–15,000.
- How do you eat Raw Fish Rice Bowl?
- Add the gochujang sauce and sesame oil, then mix everything thoroughly with a spoon before eating. Serve yourself a little soup if one comes with the set.
Find Raw Fish Rice Bowl near you
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